Detectives investigating the murder of a pensioner are still looking to speak with 10 potential witnesses, a court heard today.
A 16-year-old boy appeared at Omagh Youth Court today, charged with killing 78-year-old former psychiatric nurse Francis O’Neill, who was found dead on Saturday morning at his home in Brook Valley in the town.
The defendant, who was originally detained on suspicion of burglary, but later re-arrested as part of the murder inquiry, spoke only to confirm his name, which cannot be reported for legal reasons. Wearing a grey coat and blue jeans, he nodded when asked if he understood the charge against him.
Police Detective Inspector John Caldwell, who said he could connect the accused with the charge, said his officers were still looking to speak with would-be witnesses.
Giving his reasons for opposing bail, the officer said: “The investigation is still at an early stage. There are witnesses still to be spoken to.”
When asked how many people the police wanted to talk with, he replied: “Ten.”
A 15-year-old boy remains in police custody after being arrested in connection with Mr O’Neill’s death.
A 20-year-old man, who had been questioned by detectives, was released without charge overnight.
A defence lawyer at the hearing in Omagh Magistrates’ Court said he would not be making a bail application at this stage, as the investigation was still in its initial stages and another suspect was being questioned. However, he said he would be intending to do so at the earliest stage possible.
Magistrate Greg McCourt remanded the teenager in custody to appear before the same court next Tuesday.
PA